Just about every night around 6pm my family comes together at a round table and eats a meal that has been prepared. This is a time where we put down the phones, turn off the tv, and stop all homework. Some families call this dinner and others call it supper. I grew up calling it dinner I believe.
My child has not really added either word to her vocabulary and simply crawls up into her chair at the table with eyes of excitment ready to eat(most of the time) when I ask her to come sit down.
While sitting down eating we talk about various kid friendly topics. I typically start with how my day went and ask her to tell me how hers went. She usually skips telling me how her day went and starts talking about something else.
A few days ago our conversation was about Jesus. Lillian talked about how he had ouchies in his hands and feet and at night when we say our prayers we need to tell him sorry for the things we do wrong. This conversation truly amazed me and has layed on my heart since.
Her table etiquette is not always that great, but it has become a battle that is not worth fighting because she is eating and eating healthy! But conversation at the table is Great. Conversations are no longer one sided with me doing all the talking. She asks questions and answers questions.
Our conversation last night was somewhat odd, but well worth it at the end. She asked me if I was happy. I responded with "When you listen and do what I ask, I am very happy". I asked her the same question. She responded with a simple yes and a smile then proceded to eat her mac and cheese. So I asked her why she was happy.
"betause I get to talk!"
I thought about her response while cleaning up the kitchen and finishing the shelves in the laundry room. It isnt that my child isnt allowed to talk throughout the day rather she isnt given the opportunity to have deep conversations, becuase I am busy with chores or homework. My childs favorite part of the day is dinner time when she has my undivided attention.
It would be unrealistic to say that I will just stop doing chores and stop doing homework to devote more undivided time with her.
From this day forward I vow to make a meal for our Conversation Hour every night!
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